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5 lessons we learnt about being smart with money on The Brighter Side

Want to learn more about investing, entertaining on a budget and the keys to a successful business? Episode three of The Brighter Side has it all. 

  • Jess Irvine showed that investing doesn’t have to be intimidating. Small, consistent habits like tracking spending can build long-term confidence.
  • Adam Liaw proved entertaining on a budget is possible, serving up a feast for just $6.50 a head, while Miguel Maestre shared that authenticity is the key to lasting success.
  • Narelda Jacobs spotlighted Zoe Karatzovalis, who built a thriving, inclusive dance business from pure passion.

From feeding a crowd for less than $10 a head to dodging AI-powered scams, episode three of The Brighter Side proved that smart money moves can be as simple as they are brilliant. 

1. Investing feels less scary when you start small

When it comes to investing, most of us feel like we should have started earlier or that it’s too complex to try at all. But CommBank personal finance expert Jess Irvine reminded us that you don’t need thousands to get going. “It’s never too early or too late to start your savings and investment journey,” she explained. Even a money diary, a finance podcast or learning your net worth can be a first step towards long-term security.

2. Entertaining doesn’t have to empty your wallet

Hosting friends can feel like a luxury in the current cost-of-living crunch but Adam Liaw proved it doesn’t have to be. He served up a full baked potato party with a honey toast sundae for $6.50 a head. As Adam puts it: “Hosting does not have to mean overspending.” With a little prep, you can create a feast without blowing the budget.

Adam Liaw with Narelda Jacobs on episode three of The Brighter Side.

3. Authenticity is your best business asset

Celebrity chef Miguel Maestre may be known for his larger-than-life personality but behind the scenes, his success comes down to knowing his worth. “It’s very hard to be authentic,” he admitted, “but authenticity is your most valuable asset.” His story is a reminder that staying true to yourself is as powerful in business as it is in life.

4. Passion plus purpose is good business

Narelda Jacobs introduced us to dancer and entrepreneur Zoe Karatzovalis, who turned her love for performance and her experience in disability work into Infinite Abilities, a dance school for people on the spectrum. “If you’re determined and have the passion, you can just make anything happen,” she said. Proof that joy and hustle can build something extraordinary.

Georgie Tunny spoke with celebrity chef Miguel Maestre.

5. Don’t be fooled by AI-powered scams

Scammers are stepping up their game with AI-generated videos, fake trading platforms and even voice notes pretending to be your broker. James Roberts, CommBank’s scams and fraud expert, had one clear warning: if it feels rushed or too good to be true, walk away. “Stop, check and reject,” he said—a simple mantra that could save your savings.

Watch and stream The Brighter Side, Fridays at 8:30pm on 10.

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Published: 22 September 2025

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